WHAT ARE SECTION 8 RENTAL VOUCHERS AND RENTAL CERTIFICATES?
The Section 8 rental voucher and rental certificate programs are the federal government’s major programs for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to rent decent, safe and sanitary housing in the private market. Since the rental assistance is provided on behalf of the family or individual, participants are able to find and lease privately owned housing, including single-family homes, townhouses and apartments. The participant is free to choose any housing that meets the requirements of the program and is not limited to units located in subsidized housing projects. Section 8 rental vouchers and rental certificates are administered locally by public and Indian housing agencies (HAs). The HAs receive Federal funds from the HUD to administer the Section 8 programs. A family issued a rental voucher or certificate and is responsible for funding and selecting a suitable rental unit of its choice, which may include its present unit. Rental units must meet minimum st
